Should you wash vinyl floors?

Author: Jordon Klocko V  |  Last update: Wednesday, November 5, 2025

Vinyl flooring should be dry-mopped or vacuumed daily or weekly and—when a deeper cleaning is needed—damp-mopped with a pH-neutral cleaning agent formulated for use on vinyl or with a mild solution of equal parts distilled white vinegar and water mixed with two to three drops of dish soap.

What is the best way to clean a vinyl floor?

To clean vinyl flooring properly, begin by sweeping or vacuuming to remove debris. Mix a few drops of mild dish soap or vinyl floor cleaner with warm water and mop the floor. For tough stains, apply undiluted cleaner, let it sit, then gently scrub. Rinse the floor with clean water to remove any residue.

Is Dawn dish soap safe for vinyl floors?

Generally speaking, most luxury vinyl planks can be cleaned using soap and water and don't require a special LVP cleaner. A dishwashing soap like Dawn is the best way to clean vinyl plank flooring because it will cut grime and grease without stripping your floors or damaging the wear layer.

Does water ruin vinyl flooring?

Water can cause damage to vinyl flooring, despite its waterproof properties. Despite being waterproof, unexpected water disasters, such as leaks, flooding, and moisture buildup, can all contribute to swelling and delamination.

Is Swiffer wet good for vinyl floors?

Our Swiffer Wet cloths are designed with a pH close to neutral. As well, these cloths have been tested to be safe for use on vinyl plank flooring. Helpful? Thank you for your feedback!

How to Clean Vinyl Plank Floors (LVP) Like a Pro

What type of mop is best for vinyl floors?

Microfiber mops are ideal for vinyl plank flooring. They are soft enough to prevent scratches and can be used dry to pick up dirt and damp to clean without too much moisture.

Is Bona floor cleaner safe for luxury vinyl plank?

Bona has everything you need for maintaining and cleaning vinyl floors; from vinyl floor cleaners to mops and vinyl floor polish. Whether you have luxury vinyl tile, luxury vinyl plank or sheet vinyl flooring, Bona has you covered.

What destroys vinyl plank flooring?

Enemies of Vinyl Flooring
  • Dirt and Grit: Acting like sandpaper, dirt and grit particles can scratch the wear layer of the vinyl, especially at entryways and high-traffic areas. ...
  • Sharp Objects: Dropping sharp objects like knives or tools can puncture or gouge vinyl.

Can mold grow under vinyl plank flooring?

Mold Growth: Mold can thrive under vinyl plank flooring due to moisture. Health Risks: Exposure to mold can lead to respiratory issues, allergies, and more serious health conditions. Vinyl Plank Flooring: While durable and versatile, can be a breeding ground for mold if not properly maintained.

Why has my vinyl floor bubbling up?

Description: Bubbles often occur when the vinyl flooring is not installed correctly. This can happen if the adhesive is not applied evenly or if the vinyl is not properly smoothed out during installation, trapping air pockets underneath.

What not to clean vinyl floors with?

Vinyl Flooring “Don'ts”
  • Never use steel wool or abrasive scrubbers to clean your vinyl floor.
  • Avoid using detergents, soaps, abrasive cleaners or products intended to add shine to your floors. ...
  • Don't use wax or solvent-based polishes.
  • Don't use ammonia or ammonia-based cleaning solutions.

Can I use pine-sol on vinyl floors?

Pine-Sol is also safe for luxury vinyl wood plank flooring and vinyl tile flooring, so long as used with a dry mop and you do not saturate the floors.

Why are my vinyl floors still dirty after mopping?

One of the most common issues with LVP floors is residue left by improper cleaning products. Soap-based and oil-based cleaners, while often effective on other surfaces, can leave a sticky film on LVP flooring. This residue dulls the finish and attracts more dirt, making the floor look dirty.

How often should I mop a vinyl floor?

How Often to Clean Vinyl Plank Flooring. Like the other floors in your home, you should plan to remove crumbs, dust, and debris from your floors at least once a week.

What cleaning products are safe for vinyl flooring?

Squeaky Cleaner, COREtec Clean Spray, and Bona Pro are great for the kitchen, bathroom, hallway, and any other room in your home. They're ideal for vinyl floors and work on a variety of hard surfaces.

Is steam mop good for vinyl floors?

While steam mops offer a deep clean for many surfaces, they are not be the best choice for vinyl flooring due to the potential risk of heat and moisture damage. Instead, stick to our recommended cleaning practices with regular vacuuming and mopping with a damp microfiber mop and gentle cleaner.

What is the black stuff under the vinyl floor?

If you see black stuff under your vinyl flooring, it's probably mold. There is a chance it could just be dirt, dried-out adhesive, or slight water damage, but some of those are causes for mold growth, so you should remove it immediately anyway. In some older homes, it could be black mastic asbestos.

What happens if vinyl flooring gets wet?

Signs of water damage on vinyl flooring include bubbling, warping, lifting of planks or tiles, and discoloration.

What kills mold on vinyl flooring?

Vinegar: this is a natural solution that provides an acidic environment, helping to kill the mold. Spray on and wait for about 60 minutes, then scrub. Detergent: The EPA recommends a mixture of household detergent and water to address mold.

Can I use Swiffer wet pads on vinyl plank flooring?

If your flooring is waterproof, you can use a wet Swiffer safely, and can get a deeper clean than you'll get with a dry mop. Make sure that you use pads that feature a neutral household cleanser, rather than any harsh chemicals that could damage the flooring.

Can you put a refrigerator on vinyl plank flooring?

Since most furniture will not go under just one plank, it is perfectly safe for bulky furniture and refrigerators to go on vinyl plank flooring. Vinyl plank flooring will not be damaged or cracked by home appliances' weight due to its strong durability.

Do and don'ts for vinyl flooring?

For a more thorough clean, consider using a microfiber mop dampened with water or a manufacturer-approved vinyl floor cleaner. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners as well as tools such as steel wool, as they can strip away the floor's protective coating and cause discoloration.

Does Bona actually clean floors?

Its oxygenated formula loosens and removes heavy dirt build-up and stuck-on messes, providing a deep clean for your hardwood floors without the extra effort.

What is the safest way to clean vinyl plank flooring?

Using natural substances like vinegar or baking soda can an effective, gentler cleaning method. In addition, removing stains from vinyl tile, planks or sheet vinyl flooring this way is more budget friendly and safer for pets. Baking soda is a natural method that avoids harming the finish.

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